Have you ever chanted the words to the song, "I am a 'C'?" I grew up in a christian home, went to a Lutheran grade school and high school and can recall singing this song a million times. If you haven't heard it before, it goes a little something like this: "I am a "C"...I am a "C.H." I am a C.H.R.I.S.T.I.A.N. (DOT THE "I"), and I have C.H.R.I.S.T. in my H.E.A.R.T. and I will L.I.V.E. E.T.E.R.N.A.L.L.Y." If you would like to give this catchy tune a listen you can just follow this link and be dazzled: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yrNM-B_gg4A
During the time of the Byzantine Empire, Christianity was on the rise. I'm sure a lot of Christians in that time were singing their own version of "I am a C." Christianity was an exciting new lifestyle and belief system. As Professor mentioned in class, Christianity was just another hat that people wore. They often cast off other hats that made up their personality and reputation, but the hat of Christianity was worn by many, and for longer durations of time. Christianity was beginning to "catch" on. More and more control was being shifted from the government over to the Christian churches. The Christian church had quite an impact on the Roman way of life.
When it comes to the history of Christianity, one period in history sticks out as the most important stepping stone to the spread of Christianity. This stepping stone is known as the "Christendom" which started out as a society of Jewish Christians. This fellowship of believers then split off into two phases: the apostolic period (when the first apostles started organizing the christian church), and the post-apostolic period (which is when the Christian churches started being governed by bishops that had been placed into power).
So, whether you're a Christian or not, I believe you could recognize that without the spread of Christianity during the Byzantine Empire, there might not be Christians in this world today. Without trade, cultural revolution and communication, ideas would not be able to spread across the waters. Imagine living your life completely in a box, knowing nothing but what you've seen and having no chance to learn or see what others do. Imagine your life without religions. Imagine your life without change. Imagine.
* When I think of "Imagine" I can't help but think of John Lennon....enjoy this link...I think you know where I'm getting at =) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okd3hLlvvLw
Thanks for reading! Have an awesome week and be sure to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather!!!!!!!!
